Mapplewell village is nestled on an acclivity in the Dearne Valley. Mapplewell’s history dates back to the 13th century, with strong ties to the mining industry common across this area of Yorkshire. Today, Mapplewell is populated by relaxed, family-friendly activities and highly-rated eateries.
Sports

For sports fans, Mapplewell is best known for its golf club. Barnsley Golf Club prides itself on its casual approach to golf, making it an accessible, welcoming space for newcomers. For seasoned golfers, Barnsley Golf Club’s annual competitions promise to be a thrilling day out. The Pro Shop’s assistants are on hand to help you buy new equipment, schedule repairs, book lessons, or hire buggies. Barnsley Golf Club is also equipped to cater special occasions and corporate events in their dedicated function room.
Woodlands Driving Range offers a friendly atmosphere where golfers can focus on improving their skills without playing a full game. Woodlands Driving Range has dedicated facilities to promote skills improvement, including an all-weather practice bunker, private teaching studio, and professional tuition— with more to come!
Family-Friendly Activities
Mapplewell promises to provide a fun-filled day trip that’ll help the kids burn off steam.
The Play Village is an extensive soft-play centre at the heart of Mapplewell village. This three-tier play area is equipped with ball pits, wiggly slides, and soft components to swing, crawl, and climb. Play areas are sectioned based on age, so carers don’t need to worry about the safety of younger children. Adults can enjoy refreshments and socialise in the café while their children play. The Play Village is also open to birthday parties, with hot food and entertainment provided.
Sprint Swim Academy’s mission is to ensure both children and adults are confident swimmers. They host regular 1-to-1 and group sessions throughout the school holidays to give children the best opportunity to learn and keep fit while having fun. For adults, Sprint Swim Academy’s Lane Swimming sessions are an affordable self-investment, including a warm drink to enjoy afterwards! Sprint Swim Academy is also very active within the community, regularly raising money and donations for charities across Barnsley and beyond.
North-east of Mapplewell, Notton Woods offers calming strolls among one hundred acres of pine and larch trees. Notton Woods was originally planted for commercial use but has since been turned into a nature reserve for public enjoyment. Visitors should look out for the few broad-leaf trees standing among the pines, and several streams running through the woodland.
Food
Mapplewell is crammed full of options for delicious bites to eat! Mapplewell’s major shopping district, Blacker Road and Towngate, make it easy to find a dish to suit every taste.
The Talbot Inn and 1776 Restaurant has operated as a traditional pub since at least the 18th century. Originally a coaching inn, it was a stopping point for horse-drawn carriages travelling through Yorkshire. The Talbot Inn and 1776 Restaurant are an independent establishment serving locally sourced ales and food, so your visit supports a much-loved local business.
For a relaxed drink, the Wentworth Arms is a very popular local pub within the community. The Wentworth Arms regularly hosts live entertainment and popular quiz nights, such as bingo, local musicians, Bottomless Brunch, and card games. It’s a modern take on a traditional village pub!
Both pubs are part of the Nailmaker Pub Co. Loyalty Scheme, rewarding loyal customers with exclusive discounts and special event invitations.
Mapplewell squeezes a lot of community-focused personality into one village! Whether you’re hoping for a few rounds of golf or drinks at the pub, Mapplewell has everything a family needs for a cheerful break away.
Author
This article was written by Natalie Willetts (Natalie Willetts Research & Writing Services) to celebrate the unique historical, cultural, and artistic personalities of West and South Yorkshire. Visit her page to read more of her articles or connect with her on Instagram and LinkedIn to follow her work as a Research Consultant.
References:
https://barnsleygolfclub.co.uk/
https://www.woodlandsdrivingrange.co.uk/
https://sprintswimacademy.co.uk
https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods/woods/notton-wood